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Sherlock Holmes and the Case of
the Missing Medicare Benefits

You May Be Eligible to Enroll If:

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You are in Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 – December 7

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You Are
Aging into Medicare

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You Have a
Qualifying Disability

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You Have
Recently Moved

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You Have Been Diagnosed with A Chronic Condition like Diabetes or Heart Failure

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You are Losing Your Employer Sponsored Health Insurance

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You are in Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 – December 7


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Chapter 1: A Curious Problem

It was a foggy, quiet morning when I abruptly woke to find my dear friend, Sherlock Holmes, deep in thought by my kitchen window. “Watson,“ he began, “I have grappled with a terrible matter. It seems that Original Medicare benefits remain a mystery to most, and I intend to solve it.“

Sherlock Holmes deep in thought

Chapter 2: Preventive Services

I took a seat, eager to learn of the case at hand. Holmes drew my attention to a pile of brochures scattered across the table.

“Original Medicare covers many preventive services,” he pondered aloud. “Cancer screenings, flu shots, diabetes tests… yet it is widely unknown that these services are usually free for Original Medicare recipients. One should take advantage of these, year after year, to catch potential problems early before they become worse.”

Nodding my head, I agreed, “We must recommend that people make these services a priority.”

Chapter 3: Telehealth Services

Holmes stood suddenly, as if a new thought had struck him. He moved toward the fireplace, his hair glowing in the light.

“There’s another way, Watson, which may seem unusual to many. Telehealth services are available through Original Medicare.”

I frowned. "Telehealth? That's an odd term, but it sounds like something important."

“Yes, Watson,” Holmes said excitedly. “Picture this: one may see a doctor, including consultations for chronic conditions, mental health therapy, and follow-up appointments, all without leaving their home.”

I marveled at this revelation. “So, people need not endure long journeys or wait in crowded waiting rooms for every appointment?”

“Elementary, my dear Watson. The brilliance of telehealth lies in its accessibility. But many fail to take advantage of it, missing out on a far more efficient way to manage their health.”

Telehealth services illustration
Planning and documentation

Chapter 4: Choosing a Plan

Holmes strolled to the table, where the pile of brochures lay scattered.

“I’ve found a critical clue, Watson,” he said. “Each year, during eligible enrollment periods, those on Medicare can review and switch their plans. Yet many fail to do so, not realizing they may be able to find additional benefits. Doing an annual Medicare Plan Checkup is key to maximizing their benefits.”

“The evidence is clear,” I replied. “Every year, people should review their Medicare plan to make sure it still fits their needs.”

Chapter 5: Help With Costs

“Holmes, I fear that even though a Medicare Plan Checkup is important, these benefits will lead to a stack of bills,” I remarked.

“Ah, here we have another piece of the puzzle,” Holmes exclaimed. He presented me with a most curious document: a letter outlining a Medicare Savings Program. “For those struggling to pay for Medicare premiums or out-of-pocket costs, they may be eligible for a Medicare Savings Program. They should check if they're eligible for a Medicare Savings program to complement their Medicare Advantage plan. These programs can help low-income Medicare recipients cover premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.”

Chapter 6: Knowing Coverage Limits

Feeling as though we may be closing in on our answer, I rifled through the papers with a keen intensity. He leaned in, reading carefully.

“Watson, here is the final twist in this case,” Holmes said, eyes flashing brightly. “Original Medicare doesn't cover all services, like routine dental, vision, or hearing. One might look beyond Original Medicare and consider a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplemental plan. It is with a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplemental plan that people can get these benefits to help cover the gaps that Original Medicare does not.”

I leaned back, nodding thoughtfully. “One must learn the full extent of their coverage to ensure their health needs are met.”

Chapter 7: Case Closed

With all the clues now pieced together, Holmes sat back triumphantly.

“The case of the missing Medicare benefits is solved, Watson.”

I nodded, satisfied with the conclusion, but it seemed that Holmes still had another trick up his sleeve. He leaned forward, his sharp eyes gleaming.

“There is one more thing. Our trusted partners at EOS offer a free, no obligation Medicare Plan Checkup to ensure people have the best coverage for their needs. A simple phone call to 866-234-4430 (TTY: 711) to speak with a licensed insurance agent provides clarity and may save people money.”

“But Holmes, are you saying that even if a person thinks their plan is adequate, this checkup could uncover a better option?”

“Precisely, Watson. There is no cost and no commitment; only the opportunity to get advice to ensure their coverage is the best fit for them. Isn't that the hallmark of a well-closed case? Peace of mind.”

“Your methods never cease to amaze me, Holmes. You solved the mystery and even helped others know if their plan works for them.”

With that, Holmes returned to his files, the case of the missing Medicare benefits officially closed. As I went upon my day, I resolved to spread the word: help is only a call away, and there is no better way to ensure the mystery of Medicare coverage stays closed.

Carriers Represented: Wellcare, Devoted Health, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare®, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas